How to prepare for my visit to the doctor

Make your visit as effective as possible

 Make a list of what you want to discuss. For example, do you have a new symptom you want to ask the doctor about? Do you want to get a flu shot? Are you concerned about how a treatment is affecting your daily life? If you have more than a few items to discuss, put them in order and ask about the most important ones first. Don’t put off the things that are really on your mind until the end of your appointment—bring them up right away! 

The Talking With Your Doctor worksheets can help.  Some doctors suggest you put all your prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal remedies or supplements in a bag and bring them with you. Others recommend you bring a list of everything you take and the dose (If you have successfully added all medications and supplements to your portal account, you do not need to bring in a list of either). 

You should also take your insurance cards, names and phone numbers of other doctors you see, and your medical records if the doctor doesn’t already have them. (Again, this step can be done through the portal. The Request of Information Authorization form should state your prior providers where we can request records from). Although we do not charge insurance for our monthly subscription, the reason we ask for this is so you can still use your insurance for medications and labs. 

Your first meeting is a good time to talk with the doctor and the office staff about some communication basics. Ask how the office runs. Learn what days are busiest and what times are best to call. Ask what to do if there is an emergency, or if you need a doctor when the office is closed. Share your medical history. Tell the doctor about your illnesses, operations, medical conditions, and other doctors you see. If you have problems understanding how to fill out any of the forms, ask for help. If you need help using the computer, our staff is here to help. Just let us know and you can come in and use one of our computers and we will be close by to help.  Keep your doctor up to date. Let your doctor know what has happened in your life since your last visit. If you have been treated in the emergency room or by a specialist, tell the doctor right away. Mention any changes you have noticed in your appetite, weight, sleep, or energy level. Also tell the doctor about any recent changes in any medications you take or the effects they have had on you. It is best to meet with your provider twice per year, at a minimum. This is to ensure your provider is up to date with any changes.